Today marked the first day back to school- for teachers that is.
While I was dreading this day for a few weeks and was in complete denial, it wasn't as bad as I expected. I do truly love my job- but the summer just rushed by and I enjoy not having to work so much. It was good to see my colleagues and especially all my para friends. They are such an amazing support! We lost my dear Patrick- who I will miss so much- but I think our new team member will be a good fit. The school is coming along and I should be in my very own classroom sometime in November. My caseload looks good and I think my schedule will be quite doable. I have a number of items to wrap up before school- personal items and paperwork items for school but otherwise I'm in good shape. It is a blessing to be in where I am teaching and I look forward to the coming year. I was asked to chaperone a trip to Louisiana over spring break to help in the Katrina efforts. There will be a team of 6 girls along with myself and another teacher. I'm looking forward to this opportunity to see the efforts there and to get to know some of the gals from school- a week of impact!
I hope today wasn't a testament of what the year holds- returning from a workshop at school, I was turning into the parking lot and a fellow teacher backed into my car. Thankfully, no one was hurt and only my driver's side was dented. He was extremely apologetic- and hopefully his insurance company will cover the repairs. It's just a car, right! Perspective!
Always
Elisabeth
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Monday, August 27, 2007
Ready or not...
We can not even begin to tell you what your prayers and support have meant to so many here these last two weeks.
God is so good to provide strength, support and comfort. Continue to pray for Bek's family as they continue to process and go through this time of grieving. Pray for those of us walking alongside them that we will have understanding, strength and wisdom.
The experience of losing Jeremy has brought so many realizations to the forefront of my mind and re-centered many of my perspectives.
My friendship with Bek- we have been friends for 24 years and often behave as siblings versus friends. We have grown so comfortable with one another- probably too comfortable at times. We often joke of being "friends of convenience"- but never before has our friendship been tested so much. For the first time- I truly could not "fix" her pain or offer any words that would change her circumstances. I felt completely helpless and could do nothing but hug her and listen. Our friendship has truly gone through the cycles of life. Beyond Jeremy's home going, what hurt even more was that someone who means so much to me was in agony and I could do nothing. Despite all that has happened in the past- the ups and downs of friendship- Bek has been a faithful friend and I am so thankful for her.
It is so important to say what needs to be said- not to let a moment go by without telling someone how much you love them- care for them- are proud of them. We had a teen activity the night after, and it was important to me to see each teen individually and tell them they are loved. God has entrusted people to my care and I need to make a point to communicate to them what I'm thinking/feeling instead of assuming they know.
Guarding my emotions is so important now more than ever. I am not a "temporary emotional person"- meaning I don't tend to get really excited - I'm pretty steady all the time. But what does happen, is that I'm susceptible to low lows. It's something I've always been aware of and have struggled with. After the initial four days, I was so spent, I could barely do anything. Slowly, I'm regaining momentum and vigor. Part of the solution for me is to allow myself the grace to go through the process. I've learned that I should not waste my emotions on things that really don't matter and reserve them for what I really care about- my family and friends.
School starts this week- Youth Group starts next week. My HOPE stack is calling my name. There is much to do. I'm praying getting into my routine once again will help motivate me to accomplish the tasks at hand.
Love to you all
Elisabeth
One passage has meant a lot since the 16th and I've been mediating on it. I hope it will give you some encouragement too....
Psalm 145
1 I will exalt you, my God and King, and praise your name forever and ever.
2 I will praise you every day; yes, I will praise you forever.
3 Great is the Lord! He is most worthy of praise! No one can measure his greatness.
4 Let each generation tell its children of your mighty acts; let them proclaim your power.
5 I will meditate on your majestic, glorious splendor and your wonderful miracles.
6 Your awe-inspiring deeds will be on every tongue; I will proclaim your greatness.
7 Everyone will share the story of your wonderful goodness; they will sing with joy about your righteousness.
8 The Lord is merciful and compassionate, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love.
9 The Lord is good to everyone. He showers compassion on all his creation.
10 All of your works will thank you, Lord, and your faithful followers will praise you.
11 They will speak of the glory of your kingdom; they will give examples of your power.
12 They will tell about your mighty deeds and about the majesty and glory of your reign.
13 For your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom. You rule throughout all generations. The Lord always keeps his promises; he is gracious in all he does.
14 The Lord helps the fallen and lifts those bent beneath their loads.
15 The eyes of all look to you in hope; you give them their food as they need it.
16 When you open your hand, you satisfy the hunger and thirst of every living thing.
17 The Lord is righteous in everything he does; he is filled with kindness.
18 The Lord is close to all who call on him, yes, to all who call on him in truth.
19 He grants the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cries for help and rescues them.
20 The Lord protects all those who love him, but he destroys the wicked.
21 I will praise the Lord, and may everyone on earth bless his holy name forever and ever.
God is so good to provide strength, support and comfort. Continue to pray for Bek's family as they continue to process and go through this time of grieving. Pray for those of us walking alongside them that we will have understanding, strength and wisdom.
The experience of losing Jeremy has brought so many realizations to the forefront of my mind and re-centered many of my perspectives.
My friendship with Bek- we have been friends for 24 years and often behave as siblings versus friends. We have grown so comfortable with one another- probably too comfortable at times. We often joke of being "friends of convenience"- but never before has our friendship been tested so much. For the first time- I truly could not "fix" her pain or offer any words that would change her circumstances. I felt completely helpless and could do nothing but hug her and listen. Our friendship has truly gone through the cycles of life. Beyond Jeremy's home going, what hurt even more was that someone who means so much to me was in agony and I could do nothing. Despite all that has happened in the past- the ups and downs of friendship- Bek has been a faithful friend and I am so thankful for her.
It is so important to say what needs to be said- not to let a moment go by without telling someone how much you love them- care for them- are proud of them. We had a teen activity the night after, and it was important to me to see each teen individually and tell them they are loved. God has entrusted people to my care and I need to make a point to communicate to them what I'm thinking/feeling instead of assuming they know.
Guarding my emotions is so important now more than ever. I am not a "temporary emotional person"- meaning I don't tend to get really excited - I'm pretty steady all the time. But what does happen, is that I'm susceptible to low lows. It's something I've always been aware of and have struggled with. After the initial four days, I was so spent, I could barely do anything. Slowly, I'm regaining momentum and vigor. Part of the solution for me is to allow myself the grace to go through the process. I've learned that I should not waste my emotions on things that really don't matter and reserve them for what I really care about- my family and friends.
School starts this week- Youth Group starts next week. My HOPE stack is calling my name. There is much to do. I'm praying getting into my routine once again will help motivate me to accomplish the tasks at hand.
Love to you all
Elisabeth
One passage has meant a lot since the 16th and I've been mediating on it. I hope it will give you some encouragement too....
Psalm 145
1 I will exalt you, my God and King, and praise your name forever and ever.
2 I will praise you every day; yes, I will praise you forever.
3 Great is the Lord! He is most worthy of praise! No one can measure his greatness.
4 Let each generation tell its children of your mighty acts; let them proclaim your power.
5 I will meditate on your majestic, glorious splendor and your wonderful miracles.
6 Your awe-inspiring deeds will be on every tongue; I will proclaim your greatness.
7 Everyone will share the story of your wonderful goodness; they will sing with joy about your righteousness.
8 The Lord is merciful and compassionate, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love.
9 The Lord is good to everyone. He showers compassion on all his creation.
10 All of your works will thank you, Lord, and your faithful followers will praise you.
11 They will speak of the glory of your kingdom; they will give examples of your power.
12 They will tell about your mighty deeds and about the majesty and glory of your reign.
13 For your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom. You rule throughout all generations. The Lord always keeps his promises; he is gracious in all he does.
14 The Lord helps the fallen and lifts those bent beneath their loads.
15 The eyes of all look to you in hope; you give them their food as they need it.
16 When you open your hand, you satisfy the hunger and thirst of every living thing.
17 The Lord is righteous in everything he does; he is filled with kindness.
18 The Lord is close to all who call on him, yes, to all who call on him in truth.
19 He grants the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cries for help and rescues them.
20 The Lord protects all those who love him, but he destroys the wicked.
21 I will praise the Lord, and may everyone on earth bless his holy name forever and ever.
Sunday, August 19, 2007
Empty
I am feeling so empty and tired.
I have no energy to even begin to post what the last four days have held.
Rebecca's post will fill you in for now- and hopefully, in a couple of days I can formulate my thoughts.
Be in prayer for all here-
Always
Elisabeth
I have no energy to even begin to post what the last four days have held.
Rebecca's post will fill you in for now- and hopefully, in a couple of days I can formulate my thoughts.
Be in prayer for all here-
Always
Elisabeth
Saturday, August 11, 2007
Leadership
My heart is full- my head is full.
I spent the last three days attending the Leadership Summit put on by Willow Creek. Some of you are probably surprised that I went. I am myself. As most of you know, I don't make decisions lightly- I analyze, mull over and dissect something before I do it. Beyond having pure motives, I wanted to make sure this event would be beneficial for me. In looking at the line up of speakers, I saw that most were from the marketplace and not believers. I wondered, "what can an unbeliever teach me about leadership?". Was I in for an awakening. God's truth is all around us- even in unbelievers. He can use them to speak to us- to challenge us. Along with listening to any speaker, we must always have the discernment to evaluate what is said in light of scripture.
The talks were so timely, as we begin a new year of youth group. I've felt beaten down in recent weeks and wondering if I'm doing anything right at all. The speakers were incredibly encouraging- providing helpful insights as to how to empower your team to grab hold of your vision, how to motivate them, how to develop strategy etc...
One of the greatest truths that came through time and time again was, "know the needs of your community" and work to reach them. So often, the church gets so wrapped up in "doing church" and doing things to serve ourselves, that we forget to reach tangible needs in the community around us. As we meet needs, demonstrating God's love, the community will be confronted with the living embodiment of Christ- and they will be without excuse. This is the approach we've taken in Haiti- and it is working! Now, if we can just transpose this here.
The other truth that was impressed upon my heart was that God has me here "for such a time as this" (Esther). That gives great comfort when situations are not ideal.
There were so many other amazing principles given- it's hard to know even where to start. But, I can't lead others if I don't lead myself well- so that is where I need to start, leading myself.
It was an amazing three days- and my heart is satisfied.
Always
~Elisabeth
I spent the last three days attending the Leadership Summit put on by Willow Creek. Some of you are probably surprised that I went. I am myself. As most of you know, I don't make decisions lightly- I analyze, mull over and dissect something before I do it. Beyond having pure motives, I wanted to make sure this event would be beneficial for me. In looking at the line up of speakers, I saw that most were from the marketplace and not believers. I wondered, "what can an unbeliever teach me about leadership?". Was I in for an awakening. God's truth is all around us- even in unbelievers. He can use them to speak to us- to challenge us. Along with listening to any speaker, we must always have the discernment to evaluate what is said in light of scripture.
The talks were so timely, as we begin a new year of youth group. I've felt beaten down in recent weeks and wondering if I'm doing anything right at all. The speakers were incredibly encouraging- providing helpful insights as to how to empower your team to grab hold of your vision, how to motivate them, how to develop strategy etc...
One of the greatest truths that came through time and time again was, "know the needs of your community" and work to reach them. So often, the church gets so wrapped up in "doing church" and doing things to serve ourselves, that we forget to reach tangible needs in the community around us. As we meet needs, demonstrating God's love, the community will be confronted with the living embodiment of Christ- and they will be without excuse. This is the approach we've taken in Haiti- and it is working! Now, if we can just transpose this here.
The other truth that was impressed upon my heart was that God has me here "for such a time as this" (Esther). That gives great comfort when situations are not ideal.
There were so many other amazing principles given- it's hard to know even where to start. But, I can't lead others if I don't lead myself well- so that is where I need to start, leading myself.
It was an amazing three days- and my heart is satisfied.
Always
~Elisabeth
Tuesday, August 07, 2007
It builds character-
God uses the difficult times to produce Christ likeness within us. Refining and sharpening, He is scrapping away the rough edges and revealing His glory in us. The process isn't comfortable and it usually hurts. I'm not opposed to the process- I just wish He could take a break for a bit! It seems that I move from one "refining moment" to another without time to breathe. My mom says, "it all builds character" and I said, "I think I have enough character for now....". God obviously doesn't think so! Yet, during the times that are the most difficult, I can see God's hand moving the most vividly. Maybe that is one of His goals. Taking away the comfort, exposing the weakness and providing opportunity to see HIM clearly.
I've been feeling overwhelmed in recent weeks. The pressures of ministry- of trying to be obedient and wise in decision making- in arranging staff, massaging staff, planning details- have weighed heavy. And the balance- between family, HOPE and youth group frustrates me. Wanting to be "all things" but yet not having the know how to do that. I find it hard to wait on the Lord as He is developing others and producing growth in their lives. I want them to be somewhere where they aren't yet capable of being.
Yet- there has been so much joy in recent weeks. To see people wrestle with convictions and to see them pour into the WORD to discover God's solution. Seeing sin confronted in love and to seeing humility and repentance in response. How GREAT is our God! To hear a teen say, "I'm home" when he returned to youth group after being away for the summer. A call from an unsaved mother, saying youth group was the best thing for her daughter this year! Having six teens sit with you and commit to being godly examples to their peers as members of the leadership council. To hear the innocent prayers of my teens. To get a hug from the boys and know that they truly mean it and that they love us even when we have to correct them. Seeing a new face and the joy he had by coming and feeling comfortable and accepted. The adventure of new friendship- uncovering the layers to reveal the heart. Of feeling so comfortable and the ability to be completely transparent (even to a fault). Being able to laugh at yourself. Having friends who love you and pray you through rough spots. For wise counselors who provide godly counsel even when it is uncomfortable.
It is easy to get overwhelmed and weighed down by the pressures. Yet God is still present- still in control of all things: even the midst of being misunderstood, confused and frustrated.
And the reminder from Ephesians- He can "do immeasurably above all that we ask or thing". The pressures can produce two results: either running from God because of the pain, discomfort and selfishness or running to His open arms for comfort, peace and courage.
I was driving yesterday and heard the following song on the radio:
Over My Head- Brian Littrell
I tried to figure it out
Time and time again and time again
I guess there's just some things I'll never understand
'Cause Your ways aren't our ways
But deep down in my soul, down in my soul
There is one thing I know that I know
I'm in over my head
Right where I wanna be
I'm so lost within Your love
The love that always covers me
So high, so deep, so wide
A strong and cleansing tide
My soul has found a place to rest
I'm in over my head
I've been holding on
Now I'm letting go, just letting go
Gonna let Your love carry me away
I don't know where I'm going
But I'm surrounded by the truth
And I can feel the current pulling me
Deeper into You
I'm in over my head
Right where I wanna be
I'm so lost within Your love
The love that always covers me
So high, so deep, so wide
A strong and cleansing tide
My soul has found a place to rest
I'm in over my head
You see me for who I am
You did reach out Your hand
You made me understand
That Your love has always covered me
Always~
Elisabeth
I've been feeling overwhelmed in recent weeks. The pressures of ministry- of trying to be obedient and wise in decision making- in arranging staff, massaging staff, planning details- have weighed heavy. And the balance- between family, HOPE and youth group frustrates me. Wanting to be "all things" but yet not having the know how to do that. I find it hard to wait on the Lord as He is developing others and producing growth in their lives. I want them to be somewhere where they aren't yet capable of being.
Yet- there has been so much joy in recent weeks. To see people wrestle with convictions and to see them pour into the WORD to discover God's solution. Seeing sin confronted in love and to seeing humility and repentance in response. How GREAT is our God! To hear a teen say, "I'm home" when he returned to youth group after being away for the summer. A call from an unsaved mother, saying youth group was the best thing for her daughter this year! Having six teens sit with you and commit to being godly examples to their peers as members of the leadership council. To hear the innocent prayers of my teens. To get a hug from the boys and know that they truly mean it and that they love us even when we have to correct them. Seeing a new face and the joy he had by coming and feeling comfortable and accepted. The adventure of new friendship- uncovering the layers to reveal the heart. Of feeling so comfortable and the ability to be completely transparent (even to a fault). Being able to laugh at yourself. Having friends who love you and pray you through rough spots. For wise counselors who provide godly counsel even when it is uncomfortable.
It is easy to get overwhelmed and weighed down by the pressures. Yet God is still present- still in control of all things: even the midst of being misunderstood, confused and frustrated.
And the reminder from Ephesians- He can "do immeasurably above all that we ask or thing". The pressures can produce two results: either running from God because of the pain, discomfort and selfishness or running to His open arms for comfort, peace and courage.
I was driving yesterday and heard the following song on the radio:
Over My Head- Brian Littrell
I tried to figure it out
Time and time again and time again
I guess there's just some things I'll never understand
'Cause Your ways aren't our ways
But deep down in my soul, down in my soul
There is one thing I know that I know
I'm in over my head
Right where I wanna be
I'm so lost within Your love
The love that always covers me
So high, so deep, so wide
A strong and cleansing tide
My soul has found a place to rest
I'm in over my head
I've been holding on
Now I'm letting go, just letting go
Gonna let Your love carry me away
I don't know where I'm going
But I'm surrounded by the truth
And I can feel the current pulling me
Deeper into You
I'm in over my head
Right where I wanna be
I'm so lost within Your love
The love that always covers me
So high, so deep, so wide
A strong and cleansing tide
My soul has found a place to rest
I'm in over my head
You see me for who I am
You did reach out Your hand
You made me understand
That Your love has always covered me
Always~
Elisabeth
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